Republic #80 Into the Unknown Part 2 (of 2) Story: Welles Hartley Art: Doug Wheatley Coloring: Chris Chuckry Lettering: Michael David Thomas Cover: John Gallagher, Chris Chuckry Released: 12/21/2005 Reviewed by: JF Boivin (01/02/2006) SUMMARY: After meeting a group of angry Nosaurian rebels on New Plympto, Dass Jennir is befriended by their leader Commander Rootrock who provides him with a ship to go back to Coruscant. Meanwhile on Toola, Master Kai Hudorra and Padawan Noirah Na manage to disguise themselves and slip by the Imperial troops to board a ship en route to Coruscant. At the ruins of the Jedi temple, Jennir and Hudorra meet, each choosing a different path to follow their destiny.

[final cover] [preview cover]

THE STORY

So the two characters from the previous issue do finally meet, in front of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant no less. It's interesting to see the characters' different views on how to go on with their lives after the demise of the Jedi Order. The Bothan Hudorra is more practical, separating from his Padawan and destroying their lightsabers to go live a different life. The Human Jennir is more idealistic and decides to uphold the principle of the Republic and join his former Nosaurian adversaries in fighting the Imperial forces on New Plympto. There is also another parallel represented by a young Jedi that they witness attack the troops at the Temple, giving away his life foolishly and fight for his freedom. Personally, I think the Bothan has the better idea if he wants to survive, to lie low until the Empire is no more and the Jedi Order is restored, even though it might never happen.

Hartley has crafted a great little tale in those two issues, with a lot of dramatic elements represented by Hudorra, as well as heroism in the form of Jennir. They both follow their beliefs in the end, which is what Jedi should do.

THE ART

First, one minor thing about the cover that is slighlty annoying. Last issue had "Into the Unknown Part 1 of 2" on the cover. This one has "Jedi... Fugitive!" instead. I wish the captions would have stayed consistant with each other, like the cover art is.

The interior art by Wheatley is stunning. From the starships to the vistas of Coruscant, he truly captures the essence of Star Wars. His style is incredibly realistic and his characters are really alive though their movements and expressions. I think Hartley and Wheatley are a perfect team and I hope they craft more Star Wars tales together.

CONCLUSIONS

If you've read #79, you absolutely cannot miss this one.

Rating: 7.5 / 10 Recommended